In 2008 I got an email from Owensboro resident Billy Shane. He told me about a baseball league that had been formed for kids with disabilities mental or physical that would keep them from playing in other leagues. They had 43 kids who played ball and had ,with the help of some adults, a blast. I was HOOKED.

Two Rivers Buddy Ball has always been committed to the kids and in keeping the program free. In 2009 they held their first fishy tournament for the kids and added basketball. In 2010 the addition of Bowling, Cheerleading and soccer helped the program, and the costs, grow. This year they are adding swimming beginning in August at the Health Park. There is also talk of a Special Needs Awareness Day towards the end of July featuring a fair/carnival type setting. Plans are to have anyone who works with special needs of any age to have a booth. While the Awareness Day is still in the planning stages it sound like  great idea.

The annual Fishy Tournament was held this past weekend with well over 100 participants. The event was held at Pather Creek Park and  Owensboro photographer Donnie Hagan was there. He  took some great photos. I have several posted here but for more check out his site.

Two Rivers Buddy Ball is the type of grass roots program that begins because it is needed. They didn't seek a federal grant, the parents and concerned citizens just did it. I hope it will continue to grow and serve those up to recently didn't have the opportunity to participate in these type programs.

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